"There's a team there" – Kimmich on Germany's unity, leadership skills and political opinions | OneFootball

Speaking in an interview with Sports Illustrated, Germany's captain Joshua Kimmich feels there is more togetherness in the squad compared to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. 

“Now you're sitting in the dressing room, and there’s a team there. In the past, I sometimes had the feeling that players went to the national team and only cared about themselves.

“Right now, I feel that it’s really important to every one of them that we’re successful as a team. Being part of the national team is no longer a given; it’s something special,” he said. 

The 31-year-old went on to discuss his demanding style of leadership and touched on his decision to stay clear of political discussions involving tournament hosts USA.

“I demand a lot, but I also lead by example. I've come to understand and accept that you can't expect the same from everyone. That's not the way to get the most out of everyone.

"Of course, you need guidelines and rules that apply to everyone. But within that framework, you have to treat everyone somewhat individually.

“Having no opinion isn't the solution. Each of us inevitably has a personal stance on certain topics, and I, too, have certain values I stand by. 

"But at the same time, it's difficult to express this opinion in the role of a footballer or captain of the national team. Just because you have an opinion doesn't make you an expert.

"It's the responsibility of politicians or associations to take a position on such topics. Political situations, in particular, are often difficult to assess.

“Even for people who deal with them professionally. The idea that we players can solve these problems or change anything about them is the wrong expectation,” he concluded.